den
word
Definition
A den is the home or hiding place of a wild animal, such as a lion or fox. It can also mean a small private room in a house, often used for reading, working, or relaxing.
Usage & Nuances
For animals, 'den' suggests a sheltered, hidden place. For houses, it is mainly North American English and usually means a cozy private room, less formal than 'study'. It can also appear in negative phrases like 'a den of thieves' to mean a place linked to bad or secret activity.
Example Sentences
My dad is reading in the den.
basic
The fox went back to its den before dark.
basic
The bear stayed in its den all winter.
basic
The kids built a den under the table with blankets and pillows.
natural
We turned the spare room into a cozy little den.
natural
The police described the basement as a den of illegal gambling.
natural